Faculty members in the West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences were recently recognized for outstanding teaching, research and service for the 2014-15 academic year.
Samuel Zizzi, professor, sport exercise psychology, was recognized as teacher of the year. Zizzi was recognized as a research Fellow by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology in 2012. In addition, he is a manuscript reviewer for a variety of journals in the fields of SEP and public health. His research pursuits span both sport and exercise psychology.
Stephen Harvey, associate professor, physical education teacher education, was recognized as outstanding researcher. Harvey’s research focuses on pedagogical models and teacher/coach behavior to improve teaching and coaching practice. He recently co-authored Advances in Rugby Coaching: An Holistic Approach.
Valerie Wayda, associate professor, athletic coaching education, and Coaching and Teaching Studies department chair, was recognized as servant of the year. Wayda is a Fellow of the North American Society of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and Dance Professionals. She recently received the 2015 Distinguished Service Award for her contributions as an outstanding member of the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education.
The McDowell CHOICES team was recognized as grants person of the year. CPASSmembers of the group include Sean Bulger, Eloise Elliott, Emily Jones, and Andrea Taliaferro. McDowell CHOICES aims to improve physical activity opportunities for citizens of McDowell County, W. Va., in school and family settings. The program provides a variety of activities, from karate to archery, with participating schools across the county.
Faculty are recognized in teaching, research and service by their academic divisions as part of the promotion and tenure review process. College-wide honorees are then selected by a college-level committee.